Apple Carnegie Library breathes new life into a much-loved city icon

The opening of Apple Carnegie Library in the heart of Washington DC marks the revitalisation of an important monument in the city’s history. As the city’s first public library, and its first desegregated public building, the Carnegie Library of Washington DC played a central role in community life for over 70 years since its opening in 1903. After a period of neglect, Apple Carnegie Library continues the traditions of the building by creating a new platform for learning, performance and art for a new generation.

Image courtesy of Foster + Partners

Foster + Partners worked in close collaboration with the design team at Apple led by chief design officer, Sir Jonathan Ive to give this cultural icon a new lease of life.

“I love the synergy between old and new, the juxtaposition of the historic fabric and contemporary design. It is the layers of history which create the rich tapestry of urban life. In its ‘new’ phase of life, Apple Carnegie Library will be a way for us to share our ideas and excitement about the products we create, while giving people a sense of community and encouraging and nurturing creativity,” said Sir Jonathan Ive.

Image courtesy of Foster + Partners

The listed Beaux-Arts style building has been restored to its previous grandeur, with entrances on both sides of the north-south axis, creating an inviting urban route through the building. The southern entrance, which was the original entrance to the library, is fronted by a grand plaza that will host public concerts and events. The heart of the building has been transformed into a soaring double-height space, capped by a new skylight that brings natural light deep into the interior spaces. Here, the Forum forms the vibrant, creative hub of the building, where experts from various fields will entertain and inspire the local people. The audience can view the performances and workshops from two levels, creating a lively and interactive experience.

Image courtesy of Foster + Partners

Stefan Behling, Head of Studio, Foster + Partners commented: “We felt a great sense of responsibility in giving this much-loved monument a new life. Public libraries like this one have been the heart and soul of communities for decades, and we are proud to be able to carry forward that same spirit of learning and creativity into Apple Carnegie Library. The materiality and detailing of the historic façades and interior spaces have been carefully preserved, working closely with the National Trust for Historic Preservation and other conservation experts.”

The entire palette of materials used in the interior was chosen to suit the historic surroundings, inspired by the distinctive early 20th century detailing in the building. The project is driven by a very sustainable agenda, which included upgrading the historic building by reintroducing natural ventilation and the generous use of daylight, as well as a commitment to locally sourced materials.

Image courtesy of Foster + Partners

A grand staircase leads to the DC History Center on the second floor and the Carnegie Gallery in the basement, which displays historic photographs and documents for the public to learn about the origins and history of the building. Apple Carnegie Library also reinvigorates the surrounding park, while enhancing the northern entrance to create a clear route through the building that strengthens the connections between the northern and southern ends of the site.

Some facts…

The northern entrance was a later addition made in 2005.

The new design removes the accretions from the later years, and restores the façade, while introducing a new staircase that fans out towards the street.

The upper level of the building will continue to be occupied by the Historical Society of Washington DC.

IGS Spring 2019 Issue is here

Sign-up to the IGS Newsletter

Follow Me

Visit our friends at Glaston

Visit our friends at the CTBUH

IGS Instagram feed

About IGS Magazine

IGS is one of the leading magazines in the glass industry bringing you the latest news, technologies and developments in the architectural glass and facade design and construction field. Our subscribers enjoy content from authentic leaders of the industry, featuring amazing architecture predominantly focused on glass, with exclusive content that is rarely obtainable elsewhere.
IGS – Nothing more, nothing less…..nothing else!